A Refugee’s Burden, a Champion’s Potential
From the ashes of the Blight to the sun-drenched, yet treacherous, streets of Kirkwall, the story of Hawke in *Dragon Age II* is one of survival, ambition, and ultimately, legacy. Unlike the Grey Warden of *Dragon Age: Origins*, Hawke’s tale is not one of destiny preordained but rather a narrative forged in the fires of adversity and shaped by the myriad choices made in a world teeming with political intrigue, religious conflict, and the ever-present shadow of the mage-templar war. This is the story of Hawke, a character whose complexities continue to spark debate and fascination within the *Dragon Age* community.
The Hawke Family’s Struggle
The origins of Hawke are rooted in the harrowing escape from Lothering, a village destroyed by the encroaching Darkspawn during the Blight. Marked by tragedy, the Hawke family, including siblings Bethany and Carver (or in their absence, either Bethany or Carver in the case of Hawke being a mage or a rogue), flees towards the Free Marches and the supposed safety of Kirkwall. This initial journey sets the stage for a narrative driven by the fundamental need for survival, a theme that resonates throughout the entire *Dragon Age II* experience.
Choosing Your Path
The player’s first choice dictates the very foundation of Hawke’s character: Warrior, Mage, or Rogue. Each class provides a unique perspective and playstyle, influencing how Hawke approaches combat and interacts with the world. The Warrior, a bastion of physical prowess, charges into the fray with unmatched might. The Mage, wielding the power of magic, offers both offensive and defensive capabilities, constantly battling the prejudice that haunts those gifted with the arcane arts. Finally, the Rogue, with their cunning and agility, utilizes deception and skillful strikes to outmaneuver enemies and gain a strategic advantage. Regardless of the chosen path, Hawke’s innate ability to adapt and survive is a constant.
The Importance of Family
The bond with family is a central element of the Hawke storyline. Bethany and Carver, initially dependent on Hawke, quickly become integral parts of their lives. The player’s decisions will determine their fate and influence their relationship with Hawke. The loss of a family member can be devastating and contributes to Hawke’s deep-seated sense of responsibility for those they care about. This familial connection grounds the player and provides a strong emotional core.
Early Days in Kirkwall
The first years in Kirkwall are a struggle. The family, lacking wealth and connections, must navigate a world of prejudice, poverty, and constant danger. The struggle to secure a living, find a place to call home, and navigate the social hierarchy of Kirkwall forms the initial act of survival. Hawke’s early choices in these years will shape the path they tread and reveal their true nature: will they use their skills for good, or will they succumb to the allure of power?
Ascending the Ranks: Power, Influence, and the City of Chains
Kirkwall, the so-called “City of Chains,” is a crucible. Beneath the veneer of wealth and prosperity lies a simmering cauldron of unrest, with factions vying for control and influence. Hawke’s choices determine their position in this political game, impacting their relationships with others and shaping the future of the city.
The Mage-Templar Conflict
The most prominent conflict, and one that directly involves Hawke, is the tension between the Circle of Magi and the Templars. If Hawke is a mage, they will be forced to confront the prejudice, restrictions, and dangers inherent in being a magic user in a world dominated by the Chantry. Their every action will be scrutinized, and their very existence is a threat to the Templars and their rigid control of the mages. If Hawke is a warrior or rogue, the struggle of mages continues to have a profound effect on how they act in Kirkwall, affecting the balance of power in the city.
Seeking Influence
As Hawke navigates the complex political landscape, they are presented with numerous opportunities to amass wealth, influence, and power. They can seek the favor of nobles, forge alliances with criminal organizations, or align themselves with the Templars or the Circle of Magi. Each decision carries consequences, impacting their reputation and changing their access to resources and opportunities. Hawke can become a champion of the people, a ruthless opportunist, or a reluctant participant in the city’s power struggles.
The Anders Effect
One of the most significant choices involves the involvement with companions like Anders and his crusade to destroy the Templars. This partnership leads Hawke down a path of violence and potential conflict. Supporting Anders brings a huge rift within the community, potentially changing how the city is run forever.
The Heart of the Matter: Romances and the Bonds of Love
One of the most compelling aspects of Hawke’s journey is the opportunity for romance. Dragon Age II offers several companions who can become romantic interests, each offering a unique perspective on love, loss, and the trials of life in Thedas. The player’s actions, decisions, and conversations will shape their romantic relationships.
The Many Faces of Love
The available options are diverse and compelling. Merrill, a Dalish mage with a deep connection to her clan, offers a relationship built on shared struggles and a willingness to embrace the arcane. Fenris, an escaped slave with a burning hatred for magic and those who wield it, provides a fiery and complex romance, fueled by passion and a shared desire for freedom. Isabella, a charismatic pirate captain, provides a passionate, adventurous romance, and a reminder that fun, is also important in times of strife. Finally, Anders, a radical mage, provides a complex and deeply emotional romance, shaped by a shared struggle for justice and the ever-present threat of the mage-templar conflict.
The Impact of Relationships
The impact of romance is profound. Hawke’s partner provides invaluable support, offering companionship, insight, and even assistance in times of need. The romances influence Hawke’s decisions, shaping their moral compass and altering the course of the story. Lovers in *Dragon Age II* stand by your side as friends, allies, and confidantes.
Consequences and Heartbreak
But the choices one makes can have devastating consequences. Betrayal, heartbreak, and the harsh realities of war can tear relationships apart. Losing a loved one can change the course of Hawke’s actions, driving them to seek revenge, to fight for a better world, or to withdraw into themselves.
Companions, Enemies, and the Shaping of Thedas
Hawke’s journey is not a solitary one. They are joined by an array of companions, each with their own personalities, beliefs, and motivations. The relationships Hawke forms with these characters are crucial to the story, offering support, guidance, and companionship through the hardships of Kirkwall.
The Supporting Cast
Key companions include the cunning Varric, whose narration frames the events of *Dragon Age II*; Anders, the rebellious mage; the fierce Fenris; the quirky Merrill; and the swashbuckling Isabella. Each companion brings unique skills to combat and offers their own perspectives on the world.
Friends and Allies
Recurring allies and friends, like Varric, provide valuable information and support, offering a grounding presence throughout the narrative. Varric, in particular, remains Hawke’s constant companion throughout the years, his quick wit and unflappable loyalty a source of comfort amidst the chaos.
The Faces of Evil
Hawke is also faced with formidable enemies, each with their own reasons for opposing the champion. Meredith, the ruthless Templar commander, embodies the oppressive nature of Kirkwall’s regime, seeing magic as an abomination. Bartrand, Hawke’s greedy and ambitious brother, is driven by the pursuit of wealth and power, becoming a key adversary. The threats against Hawke are complex and the struggle is immense.
The Controversy: A City Under Scrutiny
*Dragon Age II* is a divisive title, often generating heated discussions amongst the *Dragon Age* fanbase. Some players criticized the game’s more linear story and its focus on Kirkwall, a limited environment that restricts the scope of the game.
Limitations of the Story
The more streamlined storytelling of *Dragon Age II* contrasts with the wider scope of *Dragon Age: Origins*, leading some players to feel that the narrative loses the feeling of a larger world. The reuse of environments can also be viewed as a weakness; this is due to the limitations of the game’s development cycle.
The Strengths of Dragon Age II
Despite these criticisms, *Dragon Age II* boasts a strong narrative, character-driven interactions, and the exploration of interesting themes. The game’s strength lies in its focus on a single character and the impact of their decisions.
A Legacy Forged in Conflict
Hawke’s influence reverberates through the events of *Dragon Age: Inquisition*. The actions taken and decisions made during the events of *Dragon Age II* have a direct impact on the story of Thedas. The Champion’s choices and fate are key to determining the overall narrative and shaping the world’s future.
Hawke’s Place in Thedas
Hawke’s legacy is one of a champion. Whether beloved or feared, the Champion of Kirkwall is a key character in the history of Thedas. Their choices, their romances, and their struggles help them cement their place in the *Dragon Age* universe.
The Enduring Impact
Hawke, the unlikely champion of *Dragon Age II*, remains a fascinating and often-misunderstood character. They’re defined by resilience in the face of hardship, the complexities of their relationships, and the difficult choices they are forced to make. They represent a unique perspective on the *Dragon Age* universe and demonstrate a more personal narrative than the grand, sweeping tale of *Origins*.
What are your thoughts on Hawke? What choices did you make, and what impact did they have on your *Dragon Age II* experience? Let us know in the comments below!
